Downed Power Lines
Important
Touching a power line can cause serious injury or death. You can't tell by looking whether a line is "live" or "hot" or not. Even if a downed line isn't actively sparking, always assume it is carrying electricity.
- Stay at least 30 feet away from any downed power line, and don't go near the pole or anything touching the line.
- Call 911 immediately if a power line is down. (Note: please use this option only if you actually see a downed wire. Do not assume that because your power is out there must be a wire down somewhere.)
- Warn others to stay at least 30 feet away from the line until help arrives. Keep pets away, too.
Customers with a communication disability can report a downed wire using the appropriate TTY/TDD relay service.
Other tips for staying safe around downed power lines
- If a downed line is near water - even a small puddle - keep well away.
- Be careful not to stand under damaged tree limbs or power lines. Tree limbs can become weakened during a storm but not fall until several hours or days later. The same can be true for damaged power lines or poles.
- Don't drive or walk over downed power lines.
- If a wire falls on a vehicle, passengers should stay inside the vehicle until help arrives.
- Downed power lines that come in contact with a vehicle create a dangerous situation. Do not touch the vehicle. Call 911 immediately to report it.
Still need help?
Contact us with your questions.